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Come aboard Le Lapérouse for an unforgettable voyage.

Towns and villages carved out of the water, legendary sites, infinite blue sea: between Italy and Attica, the Mediterranean continues to reveal all its treasures. In Sicily, here is Taormina, its medieval alleyways and its antique ancient theatre watched over by Mount Etna; then come Puglia and Gallipoli, unfolding their baroque pearls before making way for Greek shores. Here, legend and landscape are as one. Paxos, the island born of the gods, Parga and Galaxidi, charming little fishing ports, or Milos and its lunar landscapes, which gave birth to its famous Venus, are all perfect for wandering around. Just like Hydra, the eternal bohemian island, where it is good to lose oneself before reaching the immortal Athens.

Overview

Your voyage

All-inclusive

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Destination

Destination

Mediterranean

Valletta (Malta) to Athens (Greece)

Duration

9 days, 8 nights on board

Timeless

Free solo supplement, Back-to-back offer -20%, PONANT Bonus 30%

Ref: ER170827

Journey

Your daily itinerary

  • Kids Explorer team for 4-13 year-olds, organising customised activities on board and on shore (outings, swimming sessions, workshops, paper chases, etc.). 
  • Perfect combination of peaceful ports of call like Parga, Paxos, Galaxidi and Hydra, and unmissable sites like Taormina, Gallipoli and Milos.
  • A few of the included excursions: Mount Etna (UNESCO World Heritage Site) from Taormina; the town of Lecce from Gallipoli; the Delphi site (UNESCO World Heritage Site) from Galaxidi, etc.
Peaceful islands and ancient treasures of the Mediterranean null

Customize your journey:

Staterooms and suites

Elegance and refinement

*Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability, and subject to change at any time. The category of stateroom to which this price applies may no longer be available.

Details

More information

What's Included

Important travel details

In your luggage

Peaceful islands and ancient treasures of the Mediterranean

Itinerary

Embarkation 17/08/27 from 4:00 pm to 5:00 pm Departure 17/08/27 at 6:00 pm

17 Aug 27 - Valletta

The whole of the Maltese capital Valletta is UNESCO World Heritage listed and occupies a peninsula in the north-east of the island. From the fountain of Tritons to Saint-Elme fort, there are as many majestic streets as there are narrow staircase vennels to explore. The painted loggia and carved corbels on the tall houses will accompany you in your explorations, and you’ll rarely be bothered by traffic. You can visit the Grandmasters palace decorated with coats of arms and frescoes. Saint-John’s cathedral and the ramparts which have guarded the city since the 16th century are also among the most emblematic sites of the city. Arranged in terraces, the Barrakka Gardens will punctuate your promenade with a green and floral experience.

17 Aug 27 - Valletta

Arrival 18/08/27 early morning Departure 18/08/27 early afternoon

18 Aug 27 - Taormina, Sicily

Located on Sicily’s eastern coast, in the province of Messina, the seaside town of Taormina is Sicily’s Saint-Tropez, boasting heritage sites, secluded beaches and luxury shopping. You can visit its medieval centre, suspended 300 metres above sea level, where terraces offer a spectacular view of the Mediterranean Sea. Another vestige from its past are the ruins of the Greco-Roman theatre. This extremely well-preserved site attracts visitors who are fascinated by the natural beauty of the area which overlooks a turquoise bay.

18 Aug 27 - Taormina, Sicily

2 available excursionsto this stopover

Arrival 19/08/27 early morning Departure 19/08/27 early afternoon

19 Aug 27 - Gallipoli

Gallipoli, which comes from the Greek kalle polis, meaning beautiful town, is very aptly named. Located on the heel of the boot, the town known as “the pearl of Puglia” has many attractions. The whiteness of its façades recalls its Greek origins while its architecture echoes its multiple influences. Its old town, perched on a limestone island, concentrates the cultural heritage of this city with a thousand faces, alternately a Roman colony, then Byzantine, the property of the Popes, Norman, under the rule of Taranto… By itself, it tells the story of the different civilisations of the Mediterranean Sea. 

19 Aug 27 - Gallipoli

2 available excursionsto this stopover

Arrival 20/08/27 early morning Departure 20/08/27 evening

20 Aug 27 - Parga

An ancient port in the Epirus region, picturesque Parga is located on the western coast of the Greek mainland. Ancient classical ruins and the Venetian citadel bear witness to the town's colourful history and the diverse influences that shaped it. Take the time to discover this ancient fishing village built like an amphitheatre, by strolling along the picturesque maze of pedestrian streets lined with small, typical Greek houses decorated with flowers and many lively taverns.

20 Aug 27 - Parga

2 available excursionsto this stopover

Arrival 21/08/27 early morning Departure 21/08/27 midday

21 Aug 27 - Paxos

Near the pretty port of Gaios, discover Paxos, a lush hideaway resting in the Ionian Sea. The island is planted with cypresses and ancient olive trees that once provided oil to Venice. The architecture is marked by a distinct Venetian influence. Succumb to the charms of this island where nature, ever-present, forms beautiful landscapes.  From mountainous terrain to lovely fishing villages and hidden coves, Paxos reveals its authenticity to those willing to discover it.

21 Aug 27 - Paxos

Arrival 22/08/27 early morning Departure 22/08/27 midday

22 Aug 27 - Galaxidi

Encircled by captivating arid mountains and a sea front of unrivalled beauty, picturesque Galaxidi stands proudly in the Gulf of Corinth, on the shores of Krisaikos Bay. You will fall in love with the authentic character of this preserved and majestic town, with its paved little streets edged with former neo-classical residences, remnants of the naval era, and sumptuous religious buildings. Like one of the town’s symbols: the church of Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicholas). The building with Byzantine architecture dominates the town, and boasts two bell towers and a monumental dome.

22 Aug 27 - Galaxidi

1 available excursionto this stopover

Arrival 22/08/27 mid afternoon Departure 22/08/27 mid afternoon

22 Aug 27 - Crossing the Corinth Canal

The Corinth Canal cuts through the Isthmus of Corinth, turning the Peloponnese into an island as it separates the region from the Greek mainland. Inaugurated in 1893, the canal is a little over six kilometres long and enables merchant vessels and passenger to avoid a long 400-km detour around the peninsula. The two sides of the canal reach a height of approximately fifty metres. From the exterior decks, don’t miss this unique opportunity to watch the ship as it navigates along the narrow strip of water encased between tall, ochre cliffs. What an experience!

22 Aug 27 - Crossing the Corinth Canal

Arrival 23/08/27 early morning Departure 23/08/27 mid afternoon

23 Aug 27 - Adamas, Milos

Although Milos is especially renowned for the famous statue of Venus found in a field there and now displayed in the Louvre in Paris, this mineral island is also a geological treasure. Its volcanic origin is evident in its breathtaking landscapes and the colours of its cliffs, ranging from pure white to deep red. You’ll discover the wild beauty of the shorelines lined with the most beautiful beaches in Greece from a ship deck, and you’ll enjoy privileged access to emerald-green coves. Tiny fishing ports like Adamas hide there, with brightly-painted doors and terraces. Milos is a charming port of call in the heart of the Cyclades.

23 Aug 27 - Adamas, Milos

2 available excursionsto this stopover

Arrival 24/08/27 early morning Departure 24/08/27 late afternoon

24 Aug 27 - Hydra

This unusual gem belonging to the Saronic islands is located to the east of the Peloponnese. There are no cars here. Named after the island, the harbour town is layered up the slopes of a mountainous bay. You may be surprised to see beautiful stone mansions. These are traditional here, as are the multi-coloured caïques along the quays. Further along the shore, you will discover the Historical Archives Museum. Collections from Athens National History Museum are exhibited in the elegant villa Koundouriotis.

24 Aug 27 - Hydra

1 available excursionto this stopover

Arrival 25/08/27 Disembarkation 25/08/27 at 8:00 am

25 Aug 27 - Athens

The Greek capital city is located on the edge of the Saronic gulf, in the east of the country. It bears a plural name in reference to the first villages that surround the Acropolis. You will be enchanted by the rocky plateau presided by its monuments listed as UNESCO World Heritage. In the city below, you can visit some of the liveliest districts in Athens: Plaka, with its maze of colourful streets, and where, in the evenings the drifting aroma of moussaka and garlic prawns will tickle your taste buds. The National Archaeological museum and the Cycladic Art Museum are also some of the city’s key attractions and allow visitors to discover Athens’ cultural past.

25 Aug 27 - Athens

Peaceful islands and ancient treasures of the Mediterranean

Customize your journey

Visit of malta's former capital, mdina

Visit of Malta's former capital, Mdina
Details

 Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your daytime between airport and embarkation port.

Valletta

Meet at the airport in the Arrival hall. Look for PONANT sign. You will be greeted by our local representative off the flight selected by PONANT.

Drive to Dingli Cliff for a photostop brefore Mdina visiting. Then, proceed to Mdina - Malta's Old Capital. Mdina is one of Europe's finest examples of an ancient walled city, with its extraordinary mix of medieval and Baroque architecture.

Continue with the visit of Palazzo Parisio, a unique 19th century palace in the heart of the Mediterranean. Palazzo Parisio is not only another palace of the legendary Knights of St. John, but the ultimate memorial of ambitions, aspirations and pretensions of a 19th century noble family. It houses two baroque walled gardens, including a lovely orangery - a miniature Versailles.

Enjoy a small snack in the Palace.

You will then be transferred to the pier to embark on your ship.

 

Your programme includes:

·        Transfers, and visits as mentioned in the programme.

·        Services of a local English-speaking guide.

 

Your programme does not include:

·        Tips for the driver and local guide.

·        Personal expenses and other services not mentioned in the programme.

 

Important Information: Depending on the day of embarkation, this program may be subject to change : the Cathedral is closed on Sundays, so you will visit the Mosta Basilica instead. Palazzo Parisio is closed on Mondays; so refreshments and snacks will be served at Casa Bernard instead.

 

Duration and price of the visits are given as a guide only. The order of the visits may be reversed. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.

In the event of schedule changes of PONANT's selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.

Total

AU$450/person*

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

Maltese escape (2 nights)

Maltese Escape (2 nights)
Details

Before embarking on your cruise, take time to immerse yourself in the artistic grandeur, ancient heritage and warm spirit of the Mediterranean.

Day 1 - Valletta

You will be greeted at Malta International Airport by our local representative upon arrival of the flight selected by PONANT, or any other flight provided the details have been shared in advance with your travel advisor.

Transfer to you hotel 4* hotel.

Check-in to your room from 3:00 p.m.

Afternoon and dinner at leisure.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 2 - Valletta

After breakfast at the hotel, set off on foot with your guide to explore the wonders of Valletta. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Maltese capital is a treasure full of history, art and culture.

Your walking tour begins at the Triton Fountain and continues past the Parliament building and several historic auberges. You will then visit St John’s Co-Cathedral*, a baroque masterpiece that houses Caravaggio’s renowned Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.

The tour continues to the Upper Barrakka Gardens, offering breathtaking views over the Grand Harbour.

Return to the hotel on foot.

Lunch, afternoon and dinner at leisure.

Overnight at the hotel.

Day 3 - Valletta, Embarkation

After breakfast at the hotel, you will head to the traditional fishing village of Marsaxlokk, known for its colourful luzzus, the iconic Maltese boats. Enjoy some free time to stroll along the harbour.

The journey continues with a panoramic photo stop at the Dingli Cliffs, followed by a guided tour of Mdina, Malta’s former capital, known as the “Silent City”. Discover its medieval streets, imposing ramparts and magnificent cathedral**.

You will then continue to Mosta to visit its iconic basilica, renowned for its grand neoclassical dome, one of the largest in Europe.

Enjoy a traditional Maltese lunch in a local restaurant.

Transfer to the port for embarkation on your ship.

Your programme includes:

·        2 nights in a 4* Hotel, breakfast included

·        Lunch on Day 3

·        All transfers, guided visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme

·        Services of a local French-speaking guide

Your programme does not include:

·        Meals not mentioned (lunches and dinners at leisure)

·        Personal expenses

·        Gratuities for the guide and driver

·        Any services not mentioned in the programme

Important information:

If you are travelling on a flight not selected by PONANT, please ensure your flight details are communicated to your travel advisor no later than 30 days prior to the start of your cruise, so we can arrange your airport transfer accordingly.

*St. John’s Co-Cathedral is closed on Sundays and public holidays. In case of closure, the visit will be replaced by a tour of the Grand Master’s Palace.

**Mdina Cathedral is closed on Sundays and public holidays. When closed, guests will be given an exterior explanation and visit the Mosta Basilica instead.

All timings are for reference only and may be adjusted according to local conditions or opening hours.

Kindly note that a minimum number of participants is required for this trip to proceed. As a result, both the price and itinerary may be adjusted based on the final number of participants. Should the minimum number not be met, we will offer you an alternative arrangement.

Total

AU$2,050/person*

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

Athens discovery (1 night)

Athens Discovery (1 night)
Details

Extend your journey ashore and discover Athens after your cruise

 

Day 1 - Athens, Disembarkation

After breakfast aboard, disembark the ship where you will be greeted by our local representative and begin your panoramic sightseeing tour of Athens. Admire the city’s most emblematic landmarks such as Constitution Square, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Hadrian’s Arch, and the Panathenaic Olympic Stadium.

Continue with a guided visit of the Acropolis, the iconic hill overlooking the city. Here, explore the Parthenon, the Propylaea, the Temple of Athena Nike, and the Erechtheion with its renowned Porch of Maidens.

Your morning concludes with a leisurely stroll through the Plaka district, Athens’ historic heart at the base of the Acropolis, where narrow streets are lined with shops, tavernas, and cafés.

You will then be transferred to your hotel, the Athens Capital Centre - MGallery Collection 5*, ideally located on Syntagma Square in the elegant Kolonaki district, for check-in.

Lunch, afternoon, and dinner are at leisure.

Overnight at the hotel.

 

Day 2 - Athens, Departure

After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy free time at leisure before your transfer to Athens International Airport.

 

Your Hotel

The Athens Capital Centre - MGallery Collection 5* is a boutique property combining contemporary design with a celebration of Greek art and heritage. Located in the prestigious Kolonaki district, just steps from Syntagma Square, it offers a panoramic rooftop terrace and pool with breathtaking views of the Acropolis. Guests can enjoy Mediterranean cuisine at the MFlavours restaurant or savor creative gastronomy and cocktails at the Mappemonde rooftop bar.

Superior room categories are available upon request and at an additional cost.

 

Your Program Includes

  • 1 night in a Deluxe Room at Athens Capital Centre - MGallery Collection 5* (or similar), with breakfast included
  • Panoramic sightseeing tour and guided visit of the Acropolis with entrance fees
  • Services of a local English-speaking and/or French-speaking guide during visits
  • Transfers and luggage handling from the pier to the hotel on Day 1, and from the hotel to the airport on Day 2

Your Program Does Not Include

  • Lunch and dinner
  • Personal expenses
  • Visa fees, if applicable
  • Gratuities for the driver and local guide
  • Early check-in or late check-out at the hotel
  • Any services not mentioned in the program

Important information

  • Your flight details must be communicated to your travel agent no later than 30 days prior to departure in order to arrange your airport transfer.
  • This program includes extensive walking and is not recommended for guests with limited mobility.

Hotel contact information

Athens Capital Centre - MGallery Collection

4 Eleftheriou Venizelou Avenue & 2 Kriezotou Street, Syntagma Square

Athens 105 64, Greece

Tel: +30 21 4444 2000

 

A minimum number of participants is required for this program. Therefore, the price and itinerary are subject to change depending on the final group size. Should the minimum number not be met, an alternative will be offered.

 
Total

AU$1,910/person*

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

Athens, the acropolis museum and plaka

Athens, the Acropolis Museum and Plaka
Details

Travel with peace of mind as PONANT organises your transfer between your port of disembarkation and the airport.

Athens

After disembarkation procedures are completed, you will be greeted at the port by our local English-speaking representative.

You will be taken by coach for an exploration of one of the oldest cities in Europe, Athens.

You will enjoy a panoramic sightseeing tour of the city. You will make your first stop at the Panathenaic Stadium, a 19th-century reconstruction on Roman foundations, in which the first modern Olympic Games took place. This stadium is also known as the Kallimármaro which means “the beautiful marbled”, because it is the only major stadium in the world built entirely of white marble. It was also restored to host some competitions during the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens.

You will arrive at the Acropolis Museum, which was opened in June 2009. The architecture of the whole venue has been designed to emulate the cult of the Temple of Athena. At the foot of the sacred hill, the building’s rear facade of concrete and glass seems to billow out with the weight of its history, and it is from here that you will have your first view of the Parthenon. The museum provides a magnificent setting for the treasures discovered on the hill. The first gallery houses the findings of the archaeological site of the Acropolis of Athens and the glass floor provides a view of the archaeological excavations, giving you the impression of being in the very heart of these ancient ruins.

At the end of the morning, you will be taken to the Plaka Old District located at the bottom of the Acropolis, in the historic heart of Athens. You will have some free time (about 45 minutes or more depending on your flight return) to explore on foot Plaka’s pedestrian shopping streets where you will find jewellery stores, souvenir shops, cafes and restaurants.

You will then be transferred to the airport in time for check-in for the PONANT selected flight.

Your programme includes:

·        Transfers, visits and entrance fees as mentioned in the programme.

·        Services of a local English-speaking guide.

Your programme does not include:

·        Lunch.

·        Tips for the guide and the driver.

·        Personal expenses

·        Other services not mentioned in the programme.

Duration and order of the visits may vary. To know your PONANT flight schedule, please contact your travel agent; it is also indicated on your electronic ticket included in your travel documents.


In the event of schedule changes of PONANT’s selected flight, your programme will be adapted to ensure the most seamless and enriching experience. The content of your revised programme will be updated on the PONANT website, in My Ponant space and on the PONANT app. The final programme will also be sent to you along with your cruise documents.

Total

AU$270/person*

Price is per person, based on double occupancy, based on availability.

Peaceful islands and ancient treasures of the Mediterranean

Other available date

17/08/2725/08/27

8 nights aboard the ship Le Lapérouse

Free solo supplement, Back-to-back offer -20%, PONANT Bonus 30%

From

AU$7,910

/person*

14/06/2722/06/27

8 nights aboard the ship Le Dumont d'Urville

Back-to-back offer , PONANT Bonus 20%

From

AU$8,950

/person*

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